The 2026 Lexus RX 350 continues to dominate Australian roads with its unmistakable blend of quiet luxury, confident performance, and thoughtful innovation. Rather than chasing dramatic redesigns, Lexus has focused on refining what already works beautifully. The result is a midsize luxury SUV that feels polished, modern, and perfectly suited to both city commutes and long highway cruises across Australia’s diverse landscapes.
What Is the 2026 Lexus RX 350?
The 2026 Lexus RX 350 is a premium midsize SUV that balances performance, comfort, and advanced safety in one well-rounded package. Built on Lexus’ GA-K platform, it delivers a stable, composed ride while maintaining impressive agility for a vehicle in this segment. Its dimensions remain practical for urban driving, yet spacious enough for growing families.
Under the bonnet, the RX 350 is powered by a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the engine delivers smooth acceleration and confident overtaking power on highways. Front-wheel drive comes standard, while all-wheel drive is available for drivers who want extra traction during wet or uneven conditions.
For those seeking electrified options, Lexus also offers hybrid alternatives within the RX lineup, including the RX 350h and plug-in hybrid variants. These choices provide improved fuel efficiency without sacrificing the premium driving experience the RX name is known for.
Exterior Styling That Speaks Quiet Confidence
The 2026 RX 350 doesn’t shout for attention, but it certainly commands it. The signature spindle grille flows seamlessly into the sculpted bodywork, giving the SUV a strong yet elegant front presence. Slim LED headlights and a refined rear light bar enhance its modern appeal, especially at night.
F SPORT trims add a sharper edge with blacked-out exterior accents, larger 21-inch alloy wheels, and distinctive detailing that hints at performance capability. Despite these sporty touches, the RX retains its sophisticated character, making it equally at home outside a five-star hotel or navigating suburban streets.
Aerodynamic improvements help reduce wind noise and enhance efficiency, while the overall design reflects Lexus’ philosophy of blending beauty with function.
Interior Luxury with Ambient Elegance
Step inside the 2026 RX 350 and the cabin immediately feels serene. High-quality materials, precise craftsmanship, and thoughtful ergonomics define the space. Soft-touch surfaces, available leather upholstery, and decorative trims such as bamboo or metallic accents elevate the atmosphere.
One standout feature is the customizable ambient lighting system, offering 64 colours and multiple themes to match your mood or time of day. Whether driving at night through city lights or cruising along coastal highways, the interior ambiance enhances the experience.
A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster keeps essential information clear and customizable. The central touchscreen, available in either 9.8-inch or 14-inch configurations, runs the Lexus Interface system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with wireless smartphone charging across the lineup.
Comfort remains a top priority. Front seats offer excellent support for long journeys, while rear passengers benefit from generous legroom and optional heating or ventilation. With flexible cargo space and power-folding rear seats, the RX easily adapts to shopping trips, airport runs, or weekend getaways.
Performance That Blends Smoothness and Strength
The turbocharged engine provides a refined yet energetic driving character. Acceleration feels responsive without being aggressive, making the RX ideal for daily driving. The suspension system, including available Adaptive Variable Suspension on F SPORT models, automatically adjusts damping for a balance of comfort and control.
All-wheel-drive versions intelligently distribute power between the front and rear wheels to maintain grip when road conditions change. Steering feels precise and well-weighted, contributing to confident cornering despite the SUV’s size.
Hybrid variants further enhance efficiency while maintaining smooth power delivery, offering Australian drivers options tailored to both environmental consciousness and driving enjoyment.
Advanced Safety and Smart Assistance
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 comes standard on the 2026 RX 350, reinforcing its reputation for reliability and peace of mind. Features include pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control with curve speed management, and lane tracing assist to help keep the vehicle centred.
Additional technologies such as Blind Spot Monitoring, a Panoramic View Monitor, and Safe Exit Assist enhance awareness in busy urban environments. Traffic Jam Assist, available on select trims, reduces stress during stop-and-go traffic by supporting semi-automated driving at low speeds.
These systems work quietly in the background, offering protection without overwhelming the driver with constant alerts.
Final Verdict
The 2026 Lexus RX 350 remains one of the most balanced luxury SUVs available in Australia. With its refined turbocharged performance, elegant cabin highlighted by ambient lighting, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety suite, it continues to set a benchmark in the midsize premium segment. For drivers seeking comfort, reliability, and understated sophistication, the RX 350 proves that evolution can be just as powerful as revolution.
